New Years Day 2013

For you guys up North this is no big deal but that day was my first ever snow ride. Usually I'm down south in the winter and haven't seen snow for a few years. It was about 20 degrees that morning but except for my hands a bit cold it was no issue.

I used to ride in the snow and ice on skinny tired bikes a few times every year but my temperature threshold has been going up each year.

It was beautiful and quiet out. I could see how a couple of others had been out and struggling with their normal mtbs evident by their lines in the snow and foot prints at harder sections. I was having not problems and everything was going well until I noticed my rear tire getting low. I had lowered the pressure to about 8psi and that extra flexing had worked a tube patch loose. I didn't have any tools so I had to hike out. After about 100 yards the rear tire was off the bead, so carry was the only option. At 38lbs from the back of the trail system that was more workout than riding. The last shot is me taking an erstwhile trail that hasn't been ridding for a while.

I'd do it again if we get some snow. This time with no patches and more pressure and tools.

*I'm having comp issues and will have to come back to upload the pics.